How to Care for Silk Nightwear: Washing and Storage Tips

Quick Answer

To care for silk nightwear, hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent, never wring, and dry flat away from direct sunlight. Store folded in a breathable cotton bag, not on hangers, to prevent stretching and maintain the fabric's natural sheen.

Silk nightwear feels luxurious and delicate, but it requires specific care to maintain its softness and luster. Whether you've invested in a silk negligé or silk pajamas, proper washing and storage are essential to preserve the fabric's integrity and extend its lifespan.

Many people shy away from silk because they fear it's high-maintenance, but with the right techniques, caring for silk can be simple and rewarding. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to wash and store your silk nightwear, ensuring it remains beautiful for years to come.

Understanding Silk Fabric

Silk is a natural protein fiber that is both strong and delicate. It can be damaged by harsh chemicals, high heat, and rough handling. Unlike cotton or synthetics, silk is prone to water spots, fading, and loss of elasticity if not cared for properly. Knowing the specific needs of silk will help you avoid common mistakes.

Most silk garments, including those from Aubade, come with care labels that provide essential instructions. Always check the label first. If it says 'dry clean only,' it's best to follow that advice, but many silk pieces can be hand washed with care.

Washing Silk Nightwear

Hand washing is the safest method for silk nightwear. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent specifically designed for delicates. Submerge the garment and gently agitate it with your hands, avoiding any twisting or wringing.

Rinse thoroughly in cool water until no soap remains. To remove excess water, press the garment gently between two clean towels. Never wring silk, as this can break the fibers and cause wrinkles that are difficult to remove.

• Use a detergent that is pH-neutral and free of enzymes, bleach, and optical brighteners.
• Test colorfastness by dabbing an inconspicuous area with a damp cloth before washing.

Drying Silk Nightwear

After washing, lay the silk piece flat on a dry, clean towel. Roll the towel with the garment inside to absorb moisture, then unroll and reshape the garment to its original dimensions. Lay it flat on a drying rack or another dry towel, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Never use a tumble dryer, as the heat and tumbling will damage silk fibers. Also, avoid hanging silk to dry, as the weight of water can stretch the fabric. Drying flat helps maintain the garment's shape and prevents distortion.

• Dry silk in a well-ventilated area, but not in direct sunlight, which can cause fading.

Storing Silk Nightwear

Proper storage is key to keeping silk nightwear in pristine condition. Fold silk garments and place them in a drawer or on a shelf, ideally in a breathable cotton or muslin bag. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause mildew.

If you must hang silk, use a padded hanger to distribute weight evenly and prevent shoulder bumps. However, folding is generally safer for silk, as hanging can stretch the fabric over time, especially for heavier pieces like silk pants.

• Store silk away from direct sunlight and in a cool, dry place to prevent yellowing and weakening of fibers.

Step-by-Step Silk Care Routine

1. Check the care label: Before washing, always read the care label on your silk nightwear. It will tell you if the garment is hand washable or requires dry cleaning. Some silk blends may have different requirements. Ignoring the label can lead to irreversible damage, so always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Hand wash in cool water: Fill a basin with cool water and add a mild detergent made for delicates. Submerge the silk and gently swish it around for a few minutes. Avoid scrubbing or twisting. Never use hot water or harsh detergents, as they can strip silk of its natural oils and cause color bleeding.
3. Rinse and press dry: Rinse thoroughly in cool water until the water runs clear. Lay the garment on a clean towel, roll it up to absorb excess water, then unroll and lay flat to dry. Never wring or twist silk, as this can cause permanent wrinkles and damage the fibers.
4. Iron with care if needed: If your silk is wrinkled after drying, iron it on the lowest heat setting while it's still slightly damp, or use a steamer. Always place a pressing cloth between the iron and the silk to protect it. High heat can scorch silk, so always use a low temperature and test on an inconspicuous area first.
5. Fold and store properly: Fold the silk garment and place it in a drawer or a breathable storage bag. Avoid hangers for heavy items like silk pants, as they can stretch the fabric. Proper storage prevents stretching and keeps your silk nightwear looking new for longer.

Silk Nightwear We Recommend

• Silk Desire Pants: In a style that’s modern, loose and floaty, the Silk Desire trousers combine the lightweight feel of soft, stretch silk with sensual strips of openwork guipure lace to make the legs look longer. These pants are perfect for lounging or sleeping, but their delicate lace and silk require gentle care to avoid snagging or damaging the fabric.

Caring for silk nightwear doesn't have to be complicated. By following these gentle washing and storage techniques, you can keep your silk pieces feeling luxurious and looking beautiful for many seasons. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in preserving the elegance of silk.